If you've got LED turn signal bulbs, you may have experienced something known as hyper-flashing. Unfortunately, this is a common problem when you switch from incandescent or halogen bulbs to LED ones. LED bulbs are meant to withstand a higher amount of external pressure, plus they simply make your car look cooler. However, LED bulb upgrade issues can leave you wondering if switching was a mistake. The good news is we're here to help you take care of hyper-flashing!
What Causes LED Turn Signal Bulbs to Flash Too Fast?
Essentially, hyper-flashing happens due to the LED bulb drawing such a minimal amount of power that it convinces the car that something is wrong. Flasher relay issues such as this will make it seem like your LED bulbs are faulty, even though they're in perfectly good shape.
LED bulb resistance is one of the top hyper-flashing causes. LEDs have a much lower level of resistance than halogen and incandescent bulbs. Again, this may cause your car's flasher relay to misinterpret each bulb's role. Your turn signals will begin hyper-flashing as a result, which traditionally means it's time to replace your bulbs.
How to Fix Hyper-Flashing: Solutions Overview
Rather than going back to your old bulbs, why not fix the flasher relay issue? This LED turn signal fix is relatively easy and inexpensive. For example, you can choose one of the LED load resistor kits, which will overcome LED flasher relay issues. Alternatively, you can install LED-compatible flasher relays. No matter which option you choose, you'll have a quick and easy hyper-flashing fix!
Installing Load Resistors
To properly install load resistors, begin by acquiring new 50W 6 OHM load resistors. Next, you'll need to determine if you've got a single filament application or a dual filament application.
If you have a single filament, tap the load resistor wires that rest between the positive and negative wires. However, if you're working with a dual filament, you'll notice three wires: one negative, one positive high filament, and one positive low filament. This will again require you to tap the load resistor, and it's most likely located between the positive high filament and negative wires.
Please note: If tapping between the positive high filament and negative wires doesn't work, remove the wires and try again with tapping the other power wire. At most, this will cause you to tap the lead resistor up to two times.
Occasionally, you might try the hyper-flashing resistor installation in both configurations but still have not solved the hyper-flash issue. In this scenario, your connection could be the issue. To fix this issue, make sure the metal wire from the resistor is making a solid contact to the factory wiring.
Merge your wires by using a wire stripper to strip back the rubber coating on the wire. This will expose the bare wire to tap the resistor inline. Once you've successfully merged the wires, use electric tape, or solder with a heat shrink to cover the connection. Finally, mount the resistor with zip-ties or self-tap screw to secure it to the frame. Do not let the resistor touch any plastic or other wires as they get very hot and can melt other components.
Upgrading to an LED-Compatible Flasher Relay
Upgrading to an LED flasher relay is another option. To begin, purchase an LED flasher relay upgrade kit. Next, remove the shroud and bezel fascia above your turn signal indicators. Unsnap the upper plastic panel from your steering column.
Take a Phillips head screwdriver and remove the screws that are holding the instrument panel in place, followed by removing the instrument panel. Once you've located the flasher relay, remove it and the anchoring nut with a 10mm wrench. Take the relay end and insert it into the relay clip slot. Plug in the new relay, and then reattach the bracket with your 10mm wrench. Make sure your chosen hyper-flashing with relay solution works, then reassemble everything using the reverse order.
Please Note: Not all vehicles have a changeable flasher relay. Most newer vehicles are controlled by the BCM computer instead of a flasher.
Comparing Solutions: Resistors vs. Flasher Relay
You know how to install either fix now, but what provides the best hyper-flashing solution? Let's take a closer look at this LED turn signal fix comparison.
Resistors effectively change your LED signal current into an incandescent or halogen bulb current. This is a relatively easy fix, but you will most likely be required to do it for all four turn signals, which can be time-consuming.
Flasher relays, on the other hand, have plug and play technology. While it may take you a few minutes to reach your flasher relay, you'll be able to use just one to work for all your turn signals.
So, which one is best? Resistors vs flasher relay options really come down to personal preference. For example, the type of car you own can make a difference in whether resistors or a flasher relay will be easier to install. Additionally, be honest with yourself regarding your comfort level in working with various wires. Whichever option you choose will be able to stop hyper-flashing!
Adding Resistors
One common method to fix hyper-flashing is by adding load resistors to the circuit. Load resistors simulate the resistance of a traditional incandescent bulb, preventing the vehicle’s electrical system from detecting a drop in resistance, which causes hyper-flashing.
- Installation: You’ll need to install one resistor per turn signal bulb. The resistors should be connected in parallel with the LED bulbs. This involves splicing the resistor into the turn signal's positive wire and grounding it to the chassis.
- Considerations: While effective, resistors can generate heat, so they need to be securely mounted away from plastic components or wiring that could be damaged.
Upgrading to an LED Flasher Relay
Another method to eliminate hyper-flashing is by replacing the standard flasher relay with an LED-compatible relay. The flasher relay is responsible for controlling the blink rate of your turn signals.
- Installation: Replacing the flasher relay is generally easier than installing resistors. Locate your vehicle's existing relay (often found under the dashboard or near the fuse box) and swap it out for an LED-compatible one.
- Considerations: This solution is more straightforward and does not involve additional wiring or heat concerns. However, it's essential to ensure you purchase the correct relay compatible with your vehicle model.
Preventing Hyper-Flashing in the Future
To prevent hyper-flashing in the future, choose LED bulbs that have a built-in resistor. Alternatively, you can purchase higher power bulbs to avoid turn signal issues. Other proven LED upgrade tips include ensuring you always purchase quality LED bulbs, along with compatible parts. Although hyper-flashing is a common problem, it is not something you have to deal with.
Conclusion
Fix hyper-flashing issues to ensure your vehicle is safe and won't get you pulled over. LED turn signal maintenance includes regularly checking your car to look for any new problems. Car lighting tips include resolving any turn signal issues by either installing new load resistors or upgrading to an LED-compatible flasher relay. Both options will prevent your vehicle from hyper-flashing in the future, which is exactly what you want!
Avoid hyper-flash issues effortlessly with Underground Lighting's LED turn signals with built-in resistors—the best and easiest solution.
Buy LED Turn Signal Bulbs from Underground Lighting
Is your car hyper-flashing? Turn to Underground Lighting to buy LED turn signal bulbs, shop resistor kits, or locate flasher relays. Our high-quality LED lighting solutions will ensure your turn signals stop hyper-flashing right away. Check out our LED Turn Signal Bulbs page or reach out to us for more information. Let us help you upgrade every portion of your car's lighting with confidence today!